Ever heard of a spring loaded tamper?

[lildutchboy]

Howdy folks! First off, I'm new here and have been nursing along my PAD since February of this year. Last night i was at the local tobacconist and talking to their pipe guy. From his pocket he pulled a spring loaded tamper bearing the name "CAO" like the cigar makers. It was designed such that it followed the 3 stage packing method. First pack you tamp until you just feel resistance, the next you push down to a line marked on the shaft, the third you push till the tamper retracts all the way into the shaft.
Has anyone seen anything like this recently? I'd love to pick one up. He says he hasn't seen another like it for 20 years or so.

 

[winton]

I have never heard of a tamper like this. Interesting idea.

 

[ejames]

Well,for loading a pipe a prefer the "spring" in my finger! :lol:

 

[metarzan]

Might be a good learning tool. I know I used to pack bowls way too tight. Incredible how a perfect bowl makes all the difference.

 

[keith929]

A while ago I was gifted with a Wally Frank pipe that came with a spring loaded tamper attached to the bowl. In restoring the pipe I removed it and stored it away. I have never used it.

 

[lildutchboy]

Pictures!